Corona Handy Handwashing PSAs

Public Service Announcements (PSAs) are one of the tried-and-true mass media tools communicators use to raise awareness and motivate action to address public health crises.  The COVID-19 outbreak, now spreading worldwide from China, has quickly given rise to a new crop of PSAs. 

Produced by Health Ministries, international agencies and individuals, many of them rise to the occasion by being scientifically accurate, easy to understand, culturally-appropriate, action-oriented, catchy and calming in the face of potential panic. 

Take a look at the sample PSAs NPR selected from around the world here.  Some seem more effective than others, in our opinion, but most deserve high marks . Of course, field research will be needed to confirm their reach and impact among targeted audiences.  

Using styles ranging from the formal and technical to the humorous and even ridiculous, they are helpful contributions to the urgent response of individuals and communities.